Edited Press Release
Two-Day Gathering in Greensboro, NC Brings Together Black Equestrians for Community Building, Professional Development, and Cultural Connection
GREENSBORO, NC – Black In The Saddle and the Urban Culture Association of Black Cowboys and Cowgirls are proud to announce the Kinship Conference, a groundbreaking two-day event celebrating the contributions of Black people in the horse industry. The conference will take place November 6-7, 2026, at the Embassy Suites hotel in Greensboro, North Carolina.
The Kinship Conference addresses a critical need in the equestrian world: creating community infrastructure for Black horsefolk who have historically worked in isolation, often without access to mentorship, professional networks, or visible pathways to sustained careers. Through keynotes, skill-building workshops, and cultural activations, the conference will bring together professionals, newcomers, and elders to build the connections that ensure Black equestrians don’t just survive in the industry, they thrive.
“Black equestrians have shaped the horse industry for centuries as riders, trainers, breeders, and innovators,” said organizers. “Yet many work without the community support that sustains long-term careers. The Kinship Conference creates the space where community finds connection, newcomers find entry points, and elders find their stories honored.”
Conference Highlights Include:
● Three Educational Tracks: Skill Development & Technique, Career & Business Development, and Horse + Human Health & Wellness
● Industry Activations: Professional roundtables, storytelling booth, and an engaging farm tour/service project
● Networking & Celebration: Morning wellness sessions, networking mixer, cowboy party, live concert, and VIP dinner
● Industry Professionals: Keynote addresses and panel discussions with equine industry leaders, creatives, and historians
The intimate gathering is designed for deep connection and lasting impact, with more than 250 attendees expected. The conference represents a historic moment for the Black equestrian community, creating pathways for knowledge sharing, professional development, and cultural preservation.
Sponsorship opportunities are now available for organizations looking to align with this pioneering event. Founding sponsors will be recognized as visionaries supporting inclusion, heritage, and community in the equestrian industry.
For more information about attending or sponsoring the Kinship Conference, visit www.blkinthesaddle.com/kinship or contact kinship@blkinthesaddle.com.
About Black In The Saddle Black In The Saddle is a community platform dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating the impact of Black equestrians within the horse industry, reaching over 15,000 followers across social media platforms and 20,000 podcast listeners.
About Urban Culture Association of Black Cowboys and Cowgirls The Urban Culture Association of Black Cowboys and Cowgirls is a community organization dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and promoting the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black Cowboys. Media Contact: Abriana Johnson – Email: kinship@blkinthesaddle.com Phone: (919) 404-9003 Social: @blkinthesaddle | @ucabcc
